Islands Restaurant Vista
240 S Melrose Dr, Vista
(760) 631-1535
Recent Reviews
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Wonderful hostess 👍
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
The coldest beer in town.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Ethan, young dude with blonde hair, could use a mentor. Service was less than mediocre. It wasnt the worst service in the world and I wouldn't even recommend firing him, but management needs to mentor him. Not getting orders in, nachos came in at the end of the meal because he didn't get the order in when we ordered it, never asked if anyone needed refills on drinks, that's a common thing to be asking. When asked for a refill it took a long time to get it and he took it to another table and started handing it to another diner. He had no clue where that drink was supposed to go. My wife wanted to with hold tipping him because of service. Fyi, I've only done that a few times and that's because service was horrendous. Im not going to put it 100% on Ethan cuz he's young as hell. Management needs to make sure their people understand the job and what it details.
Wow how the mighty have fallen. We have been going to islands forever and we're excited to get back there on our trip but it has changed so much I don't think we'll ever go back. First off we had chips and salsa, the chips were store bought and the salsa was definitely pace picante sauce. Then my son had chicken strips frozen pre packaged strips he barely ate any of them. Burger was good but so much smaller than they used to be and way more expensive. I can see why the place was pretty empty at 6pm on a Thursday evening
Love this place. Always great food. Staff is friendly and helpful.
Tried it again. I've been a few times over the years. Have never liked the food. Still don't like it. Tried different items. Fries and food smell like rancid oil from the oil drain. Leaves that smell and taste behind in your mouth.
Good food. Friendly servers. Nice selection. Weekday lunch specials.
Like most places, quality has seriously degraded over the last few years. Whether it’s post-Covid issues or merely attempts to cost-cut in these inflation ridden times to avoid massive menu price increases, this is nowhere near the same Islands I went to some years back. Service and atmosphere were fine. This negative review is all around the significant reduction in food quality.
Atmosphere: 3
Food: 2
Service: 4
My husband was just told to go watch the game at home by the manager. He went there every Sunday with our one year old.
Atmosphere: 1
Service: 1
The food was good, the service was average, the atmosphere was extremely loud, and obnoxious.
Atmosphere: 2
Food: 3
Service: 3
Recommended dishes: Island Fries, Chicken Sandwich
Restaurantji Recommends
Islands is one of those iconic chain restaurants that has truly stood the test of time, consistently delivering mouthwatering dishes that keep customers coming back for more. Our experience was made even better by our server, Nina, who was simply fantastic. She made sure we had everything we needed, seamlessly enhancing our dining experience.
We kicked things off with a heaping plate of nachos, and let me tell you, they were a game-changer. Picture crispy chips generously smothered in gooey melted cheese, topped with fresh tomatoes, zesty jalapeños, a dollop of sour cream, creamy guacamole, and a side of flavorful salsa. Each bite was a delight, especially with the extra cheese that pooled on the plate, perfect for scooping up with the bottom chips.
The drinks were nice and cold, hitting the spot. Then came our two burgers, cooked to perfection—juicy and full of flavor. And what better way to wrap up such a delicious meal than with a rich, decadent mud pie? It was the cherry on top of an already fantastic experience.
With impeccable service, scrumptious food, and prices that won’t break the bank, Islands continues to impress—making it a must-visit spot for any burger lover!
Vegetarian options: Almost every menu item can be made vegetarian.
Parking: The oversized parking lot is shared with the other businesses. But there always seems to be enough parking spaces.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 4
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Island Fries
Another good trip to the Islands.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 4
Recommended dishes: Big Wave Burger and Fries, Island Fries, Burger & Cheese Fries
Waitress was attentive to our large party. Food was delicious and was prepared promptly. Sports were on, which was fun. Music was a little loud.
Kid-friendliness: Very kid friendly. High chair available. Loud atmosphere makes it easy to dine with loud littles ;)
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 5
Service: 5
Very friendly good food service is great...
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Hawaiian
I used to really like to go to Islands, but they are getting chintzy. serving sizes are much smaller. Now, unlimited fries are gone and they have so many TV screens up. It makes an environment that prevents people from actually focusing and having a conversation. I'm sick of how noisy this place is. And i'm sad that it has declined.
Atmosphere: 2
Food: 4
Service: 3
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